WILBUR Lang was one of the finalists in the 2016 LOOK Style Awards, the annual fashion and accessories design competition that sends two winners to Istituto Marangoni School of Fashion in London for a three-week fashion course.
While Lang, a student of Fashion Institute of the Philippines in Ortigas, did not win, securing a place in the finals was gratifying.
Previously, he was one of the eight designers featured in “Sole to Soul Runway Show,” a fashion benefit at Valkyrie The Palace to raise money for children with cancer. His designs have been featured in fashion glossies.
Creating modern pieces that exude empowerment effortlessly, this young designer is definitely one to watch.
Who or what inspired you to become a designer?
I was inspired to be a fashion designer through my interest in anime. Back in my elementary days, I used to draw a lot of anime characters. My classmates said my anime drawings sucked but the clothes were beautiful.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I would describe my aesthetic as minimalist with a dark undercurrent. Also, my designs can be gender-fluid. I like my women’s wear to have a touch of masculinity and my men’s wear to have elements of women’s wear. I know androgyny is a trend now in fashion; however, the way I do it, my girl is still a girl, and my guy is still a guy.
You were a finalist in the 2016 LOOK Style Awards. What did you learn from the competition?
I learned to stay true to my design DNA. I also learned that fashion is diverse. There’s no wrong or right way of doing it. As long as you believe in your designs, and if you’re fortunate enough, people will get your look. It will transcend.
What was your inspiration?
My entry for LOOK Style Awards was inspired by a series of paintings by Esteban Villanueva entitled “The Basi Revolt.” The paintings depict Ilocos Norte during the Spanish colonization. The collection has a bondage feel to it because at that time, we were ruled by the Spaniards. I wanted my clothes to reflect the feeling of being a Filipino in that context.
Now, my inspiration comes from artworks, cultures, street fashion or anything that I feel I can interpret into clothes. Right now I’m inspired by this Filipino national artist, but I can’t say yet because I haven’t started with the garment construction. I’ll just release it if it’s ready and when I’m ready.
Photography Gee Plamenco
Styling Luis Carlo San Juan
Makeup Mark Qua for Laura Mercier
Hairstyle Mark Familara for Kiehl’s
Model Jach Manere
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